Family Adventure: Trekking the Choquequirao Trail in Peru

Cusco's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a whirlwind of experiences, a true immersion into the heart and soul of Cusco and its surrounding landscapes. From the bustling energy of local markets to the serene grandeur of the Apurimac Canyon, it was a day that touched all the senses and left me with a deeper appreciation for this incredible region. I was also reminded of how much I cherish these adventures with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Experience the majestic beauty and rich culture of Cañon del Apurimac, a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Peru.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Green House. It's always a treat to start the day with fresh, local flavors. Elena was particularly excited about the freshly baked bread, while Maximilian enjoyed a strong cup of Peruvian coffee. I savored some fresh fruit, thinking how lucky we are to experience all of these new flavors together. Fuelled up, we were ready to dive into the vibrant heart of Cusco.


Experience organic Peruvian cuisine at Green House in Aguas Calientes—just minutes from Machu Picchu's breathtaking beauty.

Our first stop was the Mercado Central de San Pedro. Oh my goodness, what an explosion of colors, sounds, and smells! It’s the kind of place that instantly ignites your senses and makes you feel alive. It was a true feast for the senses. Aisles overflowed with vibrant textiles, handcrafted goods, and, of course, an astounding array of food. I was immediately drawn to the fruit section, where piles of colorful produce created a vibrant tapestry. Elena's eyes widened at the sight of exotic fruits she had never seen before, like lucuma and cherimoya. I managed to haggle for a few samples, and we indulged in their sweet, unique flavors. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the sheer variety of potatoes on display. Did you know that Peru is home to thousands of different potato varieties? It’s mind-boggling!


Discover the heart of Cusco at Mercado Central de San Pedro - a vibrant market filled with local delights, crafts, and culture.

The market is a mirror reflecting the soul of Cusco, a place where tradition and daily life intertwine in a vibrant dance.

We wandered through the maze of stalls, each offering something unique. There were vendors selling freshly squeezed juices, steaming bowls of soup, and sizzling plates of *lomo saltado*. I even spotted a few adventurous souls sampling *cuy* (guinea pig), a local delicacy. Elena was curious about everything, asking questions about the different ingredients and how they were used in traditional dishes. I love these moments, when I can share my passion for culture and gastronomy with her.

After the market, we ventured towards the Apurimac Canyon. The drive itself was breathtaking, winding through the rugged Andean landscape. As we approached the canyon, the views became increasingly dramatic. The sheer scale of the canyon was awe-inspiring, a testament to the power of nature. The canyon is considered one of the deepest in the world.

We stopped at a viewpoint to take in the panoramic vista. The Apurimac River snaked its way through the canyon floor, a ribbon of silver far below. The surrounding mountains rose majestically, their peaks shrouded in mist. It was a moment of profound peace and tranquility, a chance to connect with the raw beauty of the natural world. Elena was captivated by the condors soaring overhead, their massive wings casting shadows on the canyon walls. Maximilian, always the photographer, snapped away, trying to capture the grandeur of the scene.

For lunch, we chose Pachapapa in the San Blas neighborhood. The restaurant itself is set in a charming old mansion, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. They specialize in Cusquenian cuisine, and the dishes are prepared in a traditional wood-fired oven. We started with *ají de gallina*, a creamy chicken stew with a hint of spice. It was rich, flavorful, and utterly delicious. For our main courses, Maximilian opted for the guinea pig, wanting to try a truly local dish. Elena and I shared a homemade pizza, which was surprisingly good. The crust was perfectly crisp, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. I savored every bite, knowing that this meal was a perfect representation of Cusco's culinary heritage.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary heritage.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Kusikuy Restaurante for dinner. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for a relaxing evening. We decided to try some traditional Peruvian dishes. I had the *lomo saltado*, while Maximilian opted for the trout. Elena, predictably, chose the chicken. All of the dishes were delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall experience.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Kusikuy Restaurante in Cusco's historic center—an unforgettable culinary experience awaits.

As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today had been a true adventure, a journey into the heart and soul of Cusco. We had explored bustling markets, marveled at breathtaking landscapes, and savored delicious local cuisine. But more importantly, we had shared these experiences as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. I was so glad we were able to fit so much in one day!

Tomorrow, we will meet with the Choquequirao Trek Operator to finalise plans for the next stage of our adventure. I’m excited and a little nervous, but mostly just grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible journey with my loved ones. And perhaps we'll have time to check out the Inka Happiness Cultural Bar – after all, a little relaxation is always welcome!

What a wonderful day!